Country guide
Buying ultra-luxury watches in UAE (United Arab Emirates)
The UAE has become the fastest-growing ultra-luxury watch market 2020-2026. Dubai's 5% VAT + zero income tax + zero capital gains make it structurally efficient for both acquiring AND holding watches. Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons is the regional reference AD. Allocation politics easier than London or NY for hot references. UAE residency-via-Golden-Visa makes long-term holding optimal.
Tax & import regime
5% VAT (lowest in the developed world). 0% import duty for personal use. 0% income tax, 0% capital gains tax.
Key retailers
Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons (50+ year regional dealer), Rivoli Group, Wempe Dubai
Auction houses
Christie's Dubai (jewellery + selected watches)
Best for
Tax-efficient ownership at scale. Cross-border arbitrage from EU/UK. Building a watch portfolio under UAE residency.